How to Start Your Own Record Label and Sign Yourself as an Artist
Starting your own record label and signing yourself is a strategic move that can give you complete creative control over your music career. I'll guide you through the essential steps to make this happen effectively.
Legal Requirements and Setup
The first crucial step is establishing your record label as a legal business entity. You'll need to:
Register your business name Obtain necessary licenses and permits Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) Open a business bank account Register with your local PRO (Performance Rights Organization)
Business Structure and Planning
Choose a business structure that works best for your situation. Most independent labels start as:
Sole proprietorship (simplest option) Limited Liability Company (LLC - offers better protection) Corporation (more complex but provides maximum protection)
Creating Your Label Identity
Develop a strong brand identity by:
Creating a unique label name Designing a professional logo Establishing your brand guidelines Setting up professional email addresses Creating social media accounts
Distribution Setup
Secure digital distribution for your music through:
Independent distributors (DistroKid, TuneCore, CD Baby) Aggregators that reach major streaming platforms Physical distribution channels (if needed)
Signing Yourself to Your Label
To properly sign yourself:
Draft a recording contract Include specific terms about rights and royalties Outline release commitments Define marketing responsibilities Set clear financial terms
Legal Documentation
Prepare essential paperwork:
Recording agreement Publishing agreement (if handling publishing) Distribution agreements Sync licensing agreements Sample clearance forms
Financial Management
Set up proper financial systems:
Track all expenses and income Set up royalty accounting Create separate accounts for label and personal funds Establish payment systems for services Plan marketing budgets
Marketing and Promotion
Develop a marketing strategy including:
Social media presence Press releases and media outreach Playlist pitching Content creation Email marketing
Building Your Team
Consider partnering with:
Entertainment lawyer Accountant Marketing specialist PR representative Digital distribution manager
Daily Operations
Establish systems for:
Release scheduling Content calendar management Royalty tracking Marketing campaign execution Analytics monitoring
Remember to maintain clear separation between your artist and label activities. Keep detailed records and always operate professionally, even though you're essentially working with yourself. This structure will help you scale if you decide to sign other artists in the future.
By following these steps and maintaining professional standards, you'll create a legitimate record label that can effectively release and promote your music while maintaining full control over your career trajectory.
Monitor your progress regularly and adjust your strategy based on market response and performance metrics. Stay informed about industry changes and continuously update your approach to remain competitive in the ever-evolving music business.